FIC Report (Benue State) – The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to partnering with Benue State in addressing security challenges, modernising agriculture, expanding critical infrastructure and creating greater economic opportunities for the people.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, gave the assurance at the grand finale of the Benue State Golden Jubilee Celebration held on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Square, Makurdi.
President Tinubu described the celebration as a defining moment in the history of Benue State, noting that the occasion was not only a celebration of the past but also an opportunity to chart a new course for sustainable development, peace and prosperity. He commended the resilience, industry and patriotism of the people of Benue and assured them of the Federal Government’s continued support in the areas of security, healthcare, education, infrastructure, investment and agricultural development.
The President further paid tribute to the founding fathers of the state, particularly the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, for their vision and sacrifices, while commending Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his commitment to good governance and people-centred development.
Created on 3 February 1976 by the then military administration of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed during the nationwide state creation exercise, Benue State has grown over the past five decades into one of Nigeria’s foremost agricultural states, earning the well-deserved reputation as the “Food Basket of the Nation.” The Golden Jubilee therefore provided an opportunity to reflect on the state’s remarkable journey, celebrate its achievements and renew the collective commitment towards building a more prosperous future.
In his address, Governor Hyacinth Alia described the Golden Jubilee as a celebration of hope, resilience, unity and purposeful leadership. He honoured the founding fathers of the state, successive administrations, traditional institutions, religious leaders, farmers and all sons and daughters of Benue whose sacrifices and contributions have shaped the state’s development. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s determination to accelerate infrastructure development, improve healthcare and education, promote industrialisation, empower youths and women, attract investment and position Benue as a major hub for agro-processing, mining, manufacturing, technology and tourism.
Special Guest of Honour and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, reflected on Benue’s historical evolution and urged political leaders, traditional rulers and citizens to continue working together in promoting peace, justice, dialogue and unity as the foundation for sustainable development. He described the Golden Jubilee as the beginning of a new chapter of progress for the state.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor of Nasarawa State, Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe congratulated the Government and people of Benue on the historic milestone and reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Benue and Nasarawa States, pledging continued collaboration in promoting peace, security and regional development.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Benue State Council of Traditional Rulers and Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, called for inclusive leadership, peaceful coexistence and sustained commitment to the welfare of the people. Similarly, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, urged Nigerians to remain united, describing Benue as a land blessed with rich cultural heritage, hospitality and enormous human and agricultural potential.
The colourful ceremony attracted eminent personalities from across the country, including government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community, captains of industry, heads or federal establishments and development partners. Cultural troupes from the various ethnic groups in the state entertained guests with impressive performances that showcased Benue’s rich cultural diversity and heritage, while the ceremonial cutting of the Golden Jubilee anniversary cake marked the climax of the celebration.
The Golden Jubilee celebration ended on a note of renewed optimism, with stakeholders expressing confidence that sustained collaboration, visionary leadership and the collective efforts of the people would usher Benue State into a new era of peace, inclusive growth and sustainable development over the next fifty years.
Signed
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
